Branson Airbnb cost breakdown: Thinking of buying a vacation rental in Branson? Before you make the leap, it’s crucial to understand not just what you’ll earn—but what it actually costs to operate a short term rental in this market.
The good news? Branson remains one of the most affordable STR markets in the country, with home prices often well below national averages and operating expenses that allow for strong monthly cash flow.
Let’s break it down.
🏠 A Typical Branson airbnb cost to own breakdown
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Mortgage (on $250K purchase) | $1,400–$1,700 (w/ 20% down) |
| Property Taxes | $200–$300 |
| Homeowner’s Insurance | $100–$150 |
| Utilities (Electric + Water) | $200–$300 |
| Internet | $90–$130 |
| Trash Service | $25–$40 |
| Cleaning (2–4 turns/month) | $300–$500 |
| Pest Control | $30–$50 |
| Lawn Care / Snow Removal | $50–$75 (seasonal) |
| Vacation Rental Software | $60–$100 (Hospitable, PriceLabs) |
| Supplies / Amenities | $100–$200 |
| Total Monthly Costs: | $2,555–$3,545 |
These numbers assume a professionally set up 2–4 bedroom property with regular guest turnover. Larger homes or luxury properties may run higher.
💰 And What Can You Earn?
According to Airdna, the average monthly Airbnb revenue in Branson in 2024–2025 is $3,587, with top performers earning significantly more—especially during peak season and holidays.
Average RevPAR: $129/night
Peak Months: June, July, December, and March
Annual Occupancy Trends: 45–60% depending on property type and location
That means even with rising expenses post-2020, many well-run Airbnbs in Branson can cover their costs and generate cash flow, especially when self-managed.
📊 Branson vs. Other STR Markets
Unlike markets where operating costs eat into profits, Branson’s low taxes and low property prices create a wide buffer between revenue and expenses. Investors here enjoy:
No state income tax on rental income
Lower property tax rates than major metros
Minimal regulation in many neighborhoods
This is one reason why Branson Airbnb cost of ownership continues to attract STR investors even in a higher interest rate environment.
🧾 Fixed vs. Variable Costs
Some expenses are predictable. Others will depend on your property, how often you turn it over, and whether you self-manage.
Fixed Costs:
Mortgage
Insurance
Taxes
Software subscriptions
Variable Costs:
Cleaning fees
Utilities (seasonal swings)
Supplies
Maintenance
Pro tip: Make sure you’re building these expenses into your pricing strategy using a dynamic pricing tool like PriceLabs or Wheelhouse.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Operating costs and income vary by location, home size, amenities, and season. The income data cited here is sourced from Airdna and is intended for educational purposes only. Buyers should independently verify all information and perform their own due diligence before purchasing any property.
📍 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Yes—owning an Airbnb in Branson can still generate strong returns, especially when compared to oversaturated or overpriced markets. If you’re smart about expenses and use the right tools, you can run a profitable vacation rental here without a property manager.
Plus, The Short Term Shop will show you exactly how to set up, automate, and self-manage from anywhere in the world.
🙋♀️ Ready to Buy an Airbnb in Branson?
The Short Term Shop has helped over 5,000 investors purchase more than $2.5 billion in short term rentals across the U.S.
👉 Meet Our Branson Experts
📞 800-898-1498
📩 agents@theshorttermshop.com
What is the average Branson Airbnb cost per month?
Most Airbnb owners in Branson spend between $2,500 and $3,500 per month on operating costs, including mortgage, cleaning, utilities, taxes, and software.
Does the Branson Airbnb cost include property management?
No. The estimated Branson Airbnb cost assumes you’re self-managing using tools like Hospitable and PriceLabs. Hiring a manager can add 20–30% to your monthly expenses.
Is the Branson Airbnb cost higher than in other markets?
Not at all. Branson remains one of the most affordable Airbnb markets, with lower property taxes and home prices than most national STR destinations.
How much profit can I expect after covering my Branson Airbnb cost?
With average monthly revenue around $3,587 and typical costs between $2,500–$3,500, many investors see positive cash flow, especially when self-managing.
What’s included in the Branson Airbnb cost breakdown?
Typical costs include your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, cleaning, utilities, internet, pest control, and STR software subscriptions.
Disclaimer
All figures and estimates provided in this article are for informational and illustrative purposes only. Actual income, expenses, and returns will vary depending on property type, location, management strategy, seasonality, and market conditions. Buyers should independently verify all financial information and consult with a licensed real estate professional or financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Data referenced includes averages sourced from Airdna and real-world investor experiences in the Branson, Missouri market.
